How to launch channels on cloud

As TV Networks expand across geographies and platforms, they are bound to face challenges related to escalating costs and overall resource management. Large physical data centers and satellite/fiber-based delivery models can adversely impact broadcast operations due to high upfront costs and longer set up time. Also, these models come with its own limitations to address evolving needs of localizing content for short durations owing to business, regulatory, or for managing viewer preferences.

All media formats can be dynamically converted and moved to cloud using Fast File Transfer technology. Amagi supports ExpeDat, Aspera, and Signiant among others, for shorter turnaround time on file transfers.

Step 2: Integrate with third-party vendors using media cloud storage

Apart from content, playlist schedules, advertising commercial files, subtitles, and audio tracks can all be ingested using media cloud storage, from multiple locations. This allows TV networks to collaborate with third-party vendors such as subtitling, post-production, or QC services in a secure way, as all content is encrypted and access to Amagi’s Web UI is rigorously controlled.

Amagi’s cloud-based playout platform can be used to manage playout in real-time either on the cloud or directly at the headends. In a virtual playout set-up, all the assets are integrated on the cloud using the schedules uploaded by the broadcasters, and the final output is delivered to a headend, OTT platforms and IPTV providers using IP delivery. On the other hand, in an edge playout, all the content assets are transported to the playout server installed at the edge using the internet, and playout is remotely controlled using the web UI. Both approaches provide last-minute view into the playout, and complete control over actual broadcast.

Step 4: 24⁄7 Monitoring and MCR automation

Broadcasted feeds can be monitored directly on the cloud MCR using a web UI. The UI provides real-time view of the content played out at each operator headend via a low-res return stream. Any irregularities in playlist schedule and actual assets are notified immediately on the dashboard.

TV networks can also use Amagi’s fully functional 24⁄7 MCR for advanced playout and monitoring functions. Amagi’s team is capable of live orchestration of sports events, preparing a ‘look-ahead’ playout for error detection, and resolving all errors with pre-defined SLAs.

Getting started

Talk to Amagi’s broadcast playout experts, to discuss the best broadcast infrastructure for your TV channel. Write to us on cloudandme@amagi.com